But a spokesperson for the Department of Transport said the move was a step towards the creation of a northern powerhouse for the UK economy.

"The publication of the invitations to tender is the first step in the transformation of train travel between the northern cities. It is also a significant step in the creation of a northern powerhouse for the UK economy."

The closure of the Eastman factory in Workington, with a loss of 152 jobs, has been called "devastating" by Allerdale Borough Council:

“This is devastating news – particularly for those 152 people who have lost their jobs. I feel for every one of them and their families – this is a truly terrible day.

“When you consider that in February this year, there were 1,114 jobseekers in Allerdale this is a huge increase in this area’s unemployment figures. That’s a rise of more than 13% and really puts into context how losing such a major employer is so detrimental to the local economy.

“When the threatened closure was first announced, we met with the management of Eastman, and with other agencies and employers in the area, to see what we could do to help, and I will make sure that these meetings continue.

“We want to be involved in securing the future of the site and we want to see employment back on there as quickly as possible. We will be speaking to the company and our partners in West Cumbria to make sure this happens.”